Beyond the Guidebook: Hidden Gems in Johannesburg

Aside from the many hidden gems in Johannesburg, the city is known for its iconic attractions and historical landmarks. You know, the usual spots, from Soweto and Constitution Hill to the Apartheid Museum and bustling Sandton City. 

But beyond those highlights, there's a trove of non-touristy things to do in Johannesburg for curious travellers. You start creating different kinds of memories of the city when you discover its quirky museums, under-the-radar markets, and neighbourhoods brimming with character. 

To make the most of your stay, base yourself at the Mercure Johannesburg Randburg Hotel, which is perfect for travellers setting out to explore unique things to do in Johannesburg. Guests can dine on-site, take advantage of the fitness centre, and park their cars for free at the hotel, which is just near Sandton, South Africa's financial and commercial hub. 

Whether it’s your first time in this vibrant city or your tenth, checking out the more unusual things to do in Johannesburg is the best way to connect with its energy, creativity, and culture. Without further ado, here are some of Johannesburg’s hidden gems and best secret spots. 

The Wilds National Reserve has been beautifully restored with indigenous gardens, stone pathways, and sculptures by artist James Delaney. It’s a relatively low-key escape from the heart of the city, ideal for a morning walk or a quiet picnic. Located in Houghton, you can discover some of the best skyline views of the city from its hilltops – which is great for scenic photos sans the crowds. 

Head to Victoria Yards to explore more unique things to do in Johannesburg. This former industrial space has been transformed into an outdoor shopping centre that has become a hub for artisans, designers, and social projects. You can stroll through open studios, sample local coffee, or browse unique handmade goods. On the first Sunday of each month (except January), the precinct hosts a lively market where people shop, eat, and mingle with locals. 

If you want to check out one of the more unusual things to do in Johannesburg, head to the Lindfield Victorian House, a privately-run living museum. Guided by the owner, Katherine Love, dressed in period costume, you’ll walk through an impeccably preserved Victorian home filled with old trinkets, antiques, and fascinating stories. This experience offers a glimpse into Johannesburg’s early colonial life and is unlike any other museum in the city. Plus, it's just a 20-minute drive from Mercure Johannesburg Randburg Hotel. 

If you’re the type who likes escaping into nature without leaving the city, Melville Koppies is the place to be. Its rugged hills and walking trails take you through an entirely indigenous flora and stunning views. The site is also archaeologically significant, with evidence of Stone Age tools and Iron Age smelting furnaces. A guided tour reveals both the natural beauty and deep history hidden in these small hills, known as koppies. 

If you want to go for a little shopping in the city, 44 Stanley is a great choice beyond the guidebooks. It’s actually a collection of refurbished industrial buildings now housing trendy boutiques, cafés, and galleries. The leafy courtyards and lovely water fountain create a laid-back atmosphere where you can shop for South African concept pieces. You can also enjoy brunch, or simply relax with a coffee and soak in the city's atmosphere. It’s a favourite spot amongst locals to slow down, but often overlooked by visitors.  

For an unforgettable sunset, take a drive up to Munro Drive in Houghton, one of Johannesburg's hidden gems. At the top, you’ll find a lookout with panoramic views stretching over the city towards the Magaliesberg mountains. It’s a serene spot for photography, peace and quiet, or just watching Johannesburg transform as the lights come on after dark. 

For food lovers, there are many hidden gems in Johannesburg, but not many can compare to the Yeoville Dinner Club. Hosted by chef Sanza Sandile, this cosy dining experience brings together strangers around one table to enjoy pan-African cuisine and conversation. Located in the neighbourhood of Yeoville, it’s not just a meal – it’s a cultural immersion. 

Delta Park is a well-kept secret about a 10-minute drive from Mercure Johannesburg Randburg. Although it’s one of the largest parks in the city, it’s not visited by tourists as much as other parks. Yet, it’s a sprawling green space loved by locals where you can find the Florence Bloom Bird Sanctuary with its tranquil trails and the chance to spot more than 250 bird species. It’s a beautiful retreat for travellers who want to connect with nature, yet still be close to the city centre. 

Usually, big-name galleries like the Johannesburg Art Gallery draw a lot of attention, but hidden gems in Johannesburg like Keyes Art Mile offer a different kind of experience. Located in Rosebank, Keyes Art Mile is a cluster of smaller galleries and design stores that showcase cutting-edge African art. You can also find contemporary art galleries like Everard Read and Circa, which are equally worth visiting. Together, they make up Johannesburg’s artistic pulse away from the typical tourist trail. 

Once considered a neglected part of the inner city, Maboneng has reinvented itself into one of Johannesburg’s most vibrant creative hubs. This urban area is dotted with street art, rooftop bars, independent cinemas, and a mix of local eateries that reflect the city’s flavour and diversity. The Arts on Main complex is the centrepiece, where you can explore pop-up galleries, sample craft cocktails, or watch live performances. Sundays are especially lively thanks to the Market on Main, which brings together food vendors, designers, and musicians for a street festival atmosphere. 

If you enjoy staying active or capturing photos during your travels, you'll love the Westcliff Stairs, a 210-step climb hidden in a breezy, leafy neighbourhood. This is another one of those unique things to do in Johannesburg that shows off sweeping city views that rival the lovely Munro Drive lookout. It’s pretty popular with locals for morning jogs and sunset walks, and it’s one of those spots where you can really feel Johannesburg’s local community spirit. 

There are several Johannesburg hidden gems and markets beyond the well-known neighbourhoods. Check out the Rosebank Sunday Market for antiques, great vintage finds, and global street food. Also, the colourful Congolese Market (aka Yeoville Market) is where Johannesburg’s pan-African flavours come together. Think fragrant spices, bold street food, handmade crafts, and the kind of energy you won’t find in a mall. You can meet artisans, shop sustainably, and uncover treasures to take home at these markets. Definitely worth a visit. 

Last, but most definitely not least, Honeydew Mazes is a great surprise for those looking to enjoy unusual things to do in Johannesburg. It's sort of like an escape room, but without the chainsaws and horror theme. Set on a farm on Johannesburg’s outskirts, it offers giant outdoor mazes made from reed walls that change themes every season. 

Just 20 minutes from Randburg, Honeydew is home to mazes that come with a puzzle or quiz to solve as you navigate through winding passages. Unlike the usual city attractions, Honeydew invites you to slow down, laugh with others, and connect with the outdoors in a way that’s refreshing and unexpected. Families, couples, and friends can all enjoy the mazes, which are big enough to keep you wandering for a good part of the afternoon. With wide-open skies and farm scenery, it feels worlds away from Johannesburg’s urban buzz, yet it’s only a short drive from Mercure Randburg. The mazes are ready for visitors and open for business – just make sure to check out Honeydew's website for more information.  

Some of the best hidden gems include The Wilds urban park, Victoria Yards creative hub, Lindfield Victorian House Museum, and the Yeoville Dinner Club. Each offers a unique experience that takes you beyond Johannesburg’s typical tourist destinations. 

Melville is known for its eclectic charm and nightlife, Maboneng offers art and urban energy, while Yeoville is a hub of pan-African culture. Exploring these neighbourhoods lets you experience the non-touristy things to do in Johannesburg. 

Visit the Lindfield Victorian House Museum for a glimpse into the unusual things to do in Johannesburg, or take a guided walk through the Melville Koppies to uncover ancient archaeological remains. These sites offer layers of history that most visitors miss. 

The Lindfield Victorian House Museum is a standout for its immersive experience, while smaller galleries along the Keyes Art Mile showcase innovative African art. These spaces provide a more intimate cultural encounter than the larger institutions. 

The Yeoville Dinner Club is a must for adventurous eaters, offering pan-African dishes in a communal setting. For more low-key dining, 44 Stanley has excellent cafés and restaurants where locals gather in a relaxed atmosphere.